‌

# Exploring Alternatives to SIL: What Other Housing Supports Are Available? For many NDIS participants, Supported Independent Living (SIL) isn't the only path to achieving housing independence and community connection. While SIL provides valuable 24/7 support for those who need it, the NDIS offers several alternative housing supports that may better align with individual goals, preferences, and support needs. Understanding these alternatives can open doors to more personalised living arrangements that promote choice, control, and community inclusion. The landscape of NDIS housing alternatives has evolved significantly, with new options emerging that prioritise participant-led decision making and flexible support delivery. From [Individualised Living Options (ILO)](https://www.ndis.gov.au/participants/home-and-living/individualised-living-options) that enable creative living arrangements with hosts or housemates, to [Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA)](https://www.ndis.gov.au/providers/housing-and-living-supports-and-services/specialist-disability-accommodation) designed for those with the highest support needs, these alternatives represent a shift towards more innovative and person-centred approaches to disability housing. Recent policy updates have also streamlined the process for accessing these supports, making it easier for participants to explore what works best for their unique circumstances. Whether you're seeking greater independence, looking for community-based living arrangements, or need specialised accommodation features, there's likely an alternative that can support your housing goals while maintaining the flexibility to adapt as your needs change over time. ## Deep Dive into Individualised Living Options (ILO) Individualised Living Options represent one of the most flexible and participant-driven alternatives to traditional SIL arrangements. [Any participant with home and living goals can request ILO supports](https://www.ndis.gov.au/participants/home-and-living/individualised-living-options), making this option accessible to a broad range of people seeking creative housing solutions that prioritise personal choice and community connection. ILO operates through a unique two-stage funding model that ensures thorough planning and successful implementation. The first stage, Exploration & Design, provides [up to 100 hours of capacity building support, typically capped at 30, 50 or 100 hours depending on complexity](https://www.ndis.gov.au/participants/home-and-living/individualised-living-options/funding-ilo-supports). During this phase, participants work with qualified providers to explore their housing goals, assess their support networks, and develop a comprehensive service proposal that outlines their ideal living arrangement. The second stage involves implementing the actual supports, with [funding banded at approximately $105,000, $150,000 or $230,000 per annum, depending on individual need](https://www.ndis.gov.au/participants/home-and-living/individualised-living-options/funding-ilo-supports). This funding covers primary supports from hosts or housemates, drawn from core Daily Living budgets, allowing for flexible arrangements that might include living with a host family, sharing accommodation with compatible housemates, or other creative living situations. What makes ILO particularly appealing is its emphasis on participant control and community integration. Unlike traditional group home models, ILO arrangements are designed around the individual's preferences, cultural background, and personal goals. For those interested in exploring property-related aspects of NDIS housing, our guide on [NDIS and Investment Properties: What is Allowed in 2024?](/posts/ndis-and-investment-properties-what-is-allowed-in-2024-1a509d3b) provides additional insights into housing options. The flexibility of ILO extends to the types of living arrangements possible. Participants might choose to live with a host family who provides natural supports alongside paid assistance, share a home with other NDIS participants in a housemate arrangement, or develop entirely unique living situations that reflect their individual circumstances and aspirations. This approach recognises that one size doesn't fit all when it comes to disability housing, and that the best outcomes often emerge from arrangements that feel natural and sustainable for everyone involved. ## Understanding Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) Specialist Disability Accommodation serves participants with the most complex housing needs, providing capital funding for accessible dwellings designed to meet extreme functional impairments. [Participants must have extreme functional impairment or very high support needs and meet SDA needs requirement and funding criteria](https://www.ndis.gov.au/providers/housing-and-living-supports-and-services/specialist-disability-accommodation) to access this specialised housing support. SDA funding operates differently from other NDIS supports, focusing specifically on the building and accessibility features rather than the day-to-day care provided within the accommodation. [Capital funding covers the building cost component, while rent and bills are paid by the participant](https://www.ndis.gov.au/providers/housing-and-living-supports-and-services/specialist-disability-accommodation/sda-pricing-and-payments), creating a clear distinction between accommodation costs and living expenses. The accommodation itself must meet strict design standards established by the NDIA. [The SDA Design Standard sets four categories: improved liveability, robust, fully accessible, and high physical support, effective for all new or refurbished SDA from 1 July 2021](https://www.ndis.gov.au/providers/housing-and-living-supports-and-services/specialist-disability-accommodation/sda-design-standard). These categories ensure that SDA properties provide appropriate accessibility features, from basic improvements that enhance daily living through to high physical support environments with features like ceiling hoists and emergency backup systems. For participants exploring innovative housing solutions, our article on [Transforming Lives: Innovative Housing Solutions within](/posts/transforming-lives-innovative-housing-solutions-within-ndis-specialist-disabilit-13531dfb) provides additional perspectives on how SDA can be part of broader housing strategies. The application process for SDA requires substantial evidence and typically involves working with Local Area Coordinators or Support Coordinators. [Participants can use the SDA Operational Guideline for evidence requirements and search for vacancies using the SDA Finder](https://www.ndis.gov.au/participants/home-and-living/specialist-disability-accommodation-explained), which provides an interactive tool for locating available properties that match specific needs and preferences. SDA providers must meet rigorous standards, including [registering as NDIS providers, enrolling dwellings, complying with SDA Rules and Design Standard, engaging accredited third-party assessors for certification, and notifying vacancies within 5 business days](https://www.ndis.gov.au/providers/housing-and-living-supports-and-services/specialist-disability-accommodation/sda-design-standard). This comprehensive regulatory framework ensures that SDA properties meet the high standards required for participants with complex support needs while maintaining choice and quality in the accommodation market. ## Navigating Recent Policy Updates The NDIS housing landscape has undergone significant improvements in recent years, with streamlined processes making it easier for participants to access alternative housing supports. [Since 9 June 2022, participants use the new Supporting Evidence Form – Home and Living to request any home and living supports](https://www.ndis.gov.au/news/7922-improvements-requesting-home-and-living-supports), creating a standardised approach that reduces complexity and improves decision-making timeframes. This streamlined process applies whether participants are requesting supports [within 100 days of plan end, with a change of situation form, or to review a decision](https://www.ndis.gov.au/news/7922-improvements-requesting-home-and-living-supports). The form requires participants to attach assessments or letters from treating professionals, ensuring that requests are supported by appropriate evidence while maintaining a clear and consistent process across all home and living support types. Pricing updates have also enhanced the sustainability and accessibility of housing alternatives. [The NDIS Pricing Arrangements and Price Limits 2025-26 took effect 1 July 2025](https://www.ndis.gov.au/news/10778-2025-26-ndis-pricing-arrangement-and-price-limits-released), providing updated pricing for both ILO and SDA supports that reflects current market conditions and ensures adequate funding for quality service delivery. For SDA specifically, [automated annual indexation of SDA funds began on 1 July 2024](https://www.ndis.gov.au/providers/housing-and-living-supports-and-services/specialist-disability-accommodation/sda-pricing-and-payments/sda-pricing-review/new-specialist-disability-accommodation-sda-prices-further-information), ensuring that funding keeps pace with construction and property costs. This indexation provides greater certainty for both participants and providers, supporting the ongoing development of appropriate accommodation options across Australia. State-specific changes have also improved access to supports. [Queensland's in-kind SIL and Short Term Accommodation arrangements were phased out by 31 December 2023](https://www.ndis.gov.au/news/9173-changes-kind-funding-arrangements-participants-queensland), with participants now purchasing these supports directly through their plan funds. This change provides greater choice and control over service providers while ensuring consistent funding arrangements across all states and territories. ## Conclusion and Future Directions The expansion of NDIS housing alternatives beyond traditional SIL represents a significant step forward in providing person-centred, flexible accommodation solutions for people with disability. From the participant-led approach of Individualised Living Options to the specialised accessibility features of SDA, these alternatives recognise that housing needs are as diverse as the people they serve. Recent policy improvements, including streamlined application processes and updated pricing arrangements, have made these alternatives more accessible and sustainable. The introduction of demonstration projects and innovative service models continues to expand the possibilities for creative housing solutions that prioritise community inclusion, personal choice, and individual goals. As the NDIS continues to evolve, we can expect further innovations in housing supports that build on the success of current alternatives. The focus on participant control, flexible service delivery, and community-based solutions suggests a future where housing options will become even more diverse and responsive to individual needs and preferences. For personalised guidance on exploring housing alternatives that align with your specific goals and circumstances, consider connecting with [Sandi AI](https://sandi.app) for expert support in navigating the NDIS system and identifying the housing options that best suit your needs. ## References 1. [Individualised living options](https://www.ndis.gov.au/participants/home-and-living/individualised-living-options) 2. [Specialist Disability Accommodation](https://www.ndis.gov.au/providers/housing-and-living-supports-and-services/specialist-disability-accommodation) 3. [Funding ILO supports](https://www.ndis.gov.au/participants/home-and-living/individualised-living-options/funding-ilo-supports) 4. [SDA pricing and payments](https://www.ndis.gov.au/providers/housing-and-living-supports-and-services/specialist-disability-accommodation/sda-pricing-and-payments) 5. [SDA Design Standard](https://www.ndis.gov.au/providers/housing-and-living-supports-and-services/specialist-disability-accommodation/sda-design-standard) 6. [Specialist disability accommodation explained](https://www.ndis.gov.au/participants/home-and-living/specialist-disability-accommodation-explained) 7. [Improvements to requesting Home and Living supports](https://www.ndis.gov.au/news/7922-improvements-requesting-home-and-living-supports) 8. [2025-26 NDIS Pricing Arrangement and Price Limits released](https://www.ndis.gov.au/news/10778-2025-26-ndis-pricing-arrangement-and-price-limits-released) 9. [New Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) Prices](https://www.ndis.gov.au/providers/housing-and-living-supports-and-services/specialist-disability-accommodation/sda-pricing-and-payments/sda-pricing-review/new-specialist-disability-accommodation-sda-prices-further-information) 10. [Changes to in-kind funding arrangements for participants in Queensland](https://www.ndis.gov.au/news/9173-changes-kind-funding-arrangements-participants-queensland)

‌

‌

‌

‌

‌

‌

‌

‌

‌

‌

‌

‌

‌

‌

Exploring Alternatives to SIL: What Other Housing Supports

‌

‌

‌

‌

‌

‌

‌

Prepare for an NDIS Planning Conversation: Using LLMs to Get Started

Using AI to Help Choose Service Providers - A Practical Guide 2025

Understanding the NDIS Taxi Card in 2025: Comprehensive Guide for Participants and Providers

Demystifying the $15,000 NDIS Holiday: A Guide for 2025

Can I Use NDIS Funding for Alternative Therapies? Understanding the Criteria in 2025

Exploring Alternatives to SIL: What Other Housing Supports